MNLEAD: Building a Strong Ecosystem for Race-Conscious Grantmaking

MNLEAD: Replicating A Proven Initiative & Building a Strong Ecosystem for Race-Conscious Grantmaking

On June 3rd, a U.S. federal court of appeals panel suspended Fearless Fund's grant program for Black women business owners. In response, the Black Collective Foundation MN (The Collective) urged individuals and institutions committed to racial justice to double down on commitments and action for racial justice. This fall, The Collective, with backing from MCF members, will launch MNLEAD, a replication of the California Black Freedom Fund’s Legal Education, Advocacy, and Defense for Racial Justice Fund (LEAD). This multiracial initiative aims to build a robust, interconnected ecosystem that proactively addresses legal challenges to race-conscious grantmaking, leads in shaping narratives and education, and supports strategic efforts for racial justice.

This briefing will invite additional MCF members to join the initiative. The conversation, hosted by Lulete Mola, President & Co-Founder, Black Collective Foundation MN, will feature Marc Philpart, Executive Director of the California Freedom Fund and architect of the original LEAD. Since September 2024, legal experts, advocates, and philanthropic leaders in California have been collaborating to provide strategic guidance to local organizations and foundations. Marc will share insights from the early implementation of LEAD and discuss opportunities for similar efforts within the Minnesota landscape.